THE number of sheep sold through livestock auction marts in England and Wales grew for the fourth year running in 2014.

The Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) said 200,000 more sheep were sold than in 2013 including 2.683m store and breeding sheep, compared to 2.530m the previous year, and 7.287m prime slaughter sheep, compared to 7.244m in 2013.

The number of store and breeding cattle was down slightly but calves rose by 4.5 per cent.

Chris Dodds, LAA Executive Secretary, said: “Despite the many challenges auction marts face – often from people who have never set foot inside one – and the competition from online systems and direct selling, farmers are voting with their feet, numbers sold have increased and the livestock system is as crucial as ever to British farming.

“I would encourage anyone thinking about entering into a direct supply agreement with one of the major retailers or abattoirs to think again. With major multiple retailers struggling to maintain sales, direct contracts might not be the best way for farmers to secure a long-term sustainable business.”

The rise in the number of calves sold was not huge but he said: "It does suggest a return of confidence in the beef sector and more are being sold through the auction mart system, achieving a fair competitive price."